Restaurant at Hotel Molokai reopens under new name for first time in 3 years

2015-11-12T02:55:27Z2015-11-12T02:58:36Z

KAUNAKAKAI, MOLOKAI (HawaiiNewsNow) -

The famous ocean side Hotel Molokai restaurant is back open for business, but under a new name.

"Hale Kealoha" recently reopened under new management after an electrical fire damaged and shut down the restaurant three years ago.

The owners have since hired 38 people to help keep the new restaurant running.

The announcement came as good news to Molokai residents, with the island only having a handful of restaurants to choose from.

"So far the reaction has been positive, everyone is excited," explained Kame Hoe, Executive Chef of Hale Kealoha. "It's a place where they can come and bring their families and can actually have a date night and dress up, and definitely need a nice a place on Molokai."

"We have waited for this moment for three years, I'm glad to see a local entrepreneur has come in here," said Molokai resident Kip Dunbar. "Head chef comes from here. We had so many things closed, I'm glad to see something open."

Some of the menu items will feature Molokai Beef and locally-caught fish.

The restaurant's grand opening is slated for sometime in December 2015.